Saudi Transport Authority launches first self-driving last-mile delivery pilot in Riyadh

The Transport General Authority has launched the first operational pilot of self-driving last-mile delivery services in Riyadh, as part of efforts to adopt advanced technologies and enable innovative solutions in the transport and logistics sector.

The authority stated that the project aims to improve delivery efficiency, enhance safety standards, and upgrade user experience by deploying electric self-driving vehicles within a designated area in Al-Falah district, Riyadh.

According to the authority, orders are placed electronically, prepared, and then loaded into the vehicle, which autonomously delivers them to recipients. The vehicles use Level 4 autonomous driving technology, feature 360-degree sensing, and are monitored in real time by a remote operations center with the ability to halt vehicles instantly if needed.

Project benefits and future goals

The initiative aims to reduce last-mile delivery costs by up to 85 percent, utilizing an electric fleet that produces zero emissions during operation and helps decrease street noise. It also supports local vehicle manufacturing and creates specialized jobs for Saudis in engineering, technology, and remote operations.

The authority added that the pilot is part of its strategy to create a regulatory environment for modern technologies in the transport sector and to develop more efficient, sustainable last-mile solutions, with plans to gradually expand the service in future phases.